Thaze wasn’t fazed. Not by a long shot. His group didn’t exactly have an honorable

reputation. “Are there any reasons why, or just rumors?” Thaze’s inquiry was greeted with an

eerie silence. The spellblade began to regret asking.

Ruari hesitated. “Umm…”

“Tell me, damnit. I need to hear it.” By the time Thaze saw the shadow looming over him did he realize that he had raised his voice. He had inadvertantly provoked a greeting from the Druids of Laynoth.

“I hope I wasn’t interrupting anything,” the elf began, speaking their language with a

struggle but still managing to find the exact words he was looking for, “but my group was

wondering what business a spellblade had in this small town, and if he could take it elsewhere.”

Although Ruari rushed to put one hand on each knife, Thaze knew enough of elven culture to

know that although this came out as a threat in their language, it was merely an inquiry

traditionally used to test the position of strangers during troubled times. This is why, while

Ruari was caught in a state of panic, he looked even more foolish compared to the calm demeanor

shared between the spellblade and the druid.

“Well sir,” Thaze began in elven, making Ruari even more baffled, “I am here because this was

my hometown and I wish to protect it alongside my old friend, Ruari. I wish not to cause

trouble and to clarify here and now that I am not leading these raids. If I were, firstly I

would not appear here in person and secondly I would be killing you right now instead of

speaking in your own tongue. I can also assure you that no Gearlan is involved in this as of

yet, as I had checked with my superiors on the matter before I had left Kandor. I wish to aid

the town in any way I can, in an effort not only to preserve the safety of Ilder but to clear

the route as safe passage for traders and travelers. I am sure that, like the dwarves, you are

eager to continue whatever business you had prior to the goblin attacks and would like to end

this battle as quickly as possible with as little casualties as possible. I urge you to

consider my pledge of loyalty, as I am sure we both know that I am part of the solution to the

problem at hand.”

The elf, at first taken aback by the use of his own language, quickly regained his composure.

Switching into elven himself, he said, “I thank you for using the elven language and apologize

for however my greeting translates, as I see in the reaction of your friend. I concur with your

logic on many points, but must confer with my companions before deciding on whether or not you

are worthy of my trust.”

“Noble elf, if you were to ask any of the long-standing residents I am certain that many will

recognize the name Thaze Thunderstaff and vouch for my trust.”

“Then we may just may ask some. Farewell, Thaze Thunderstaff.” With that, the elf bowed his

head, his blond locks draping down almost to the floor. After Thaze returned the gesture, the

druid rejoined his table and began discussing the matter in hushed tones. The spellblade turned

his head to see Ruari gazing eagerly, awaiting the tale of what has transpired.

“Relax, friend. I simply told the elf what my business here was and asked if his group would

trust in my story, with the suggestion to ask my name around to those who may remember.”

Ruari was clearly displeased. “Sure that’s grand, but when the hell did you gain the ability

to speak fluent elven, lad?”

“I had a few… missions in elven territory. I spent close to three years in Laynoth.”

Yet again, Ruari was thrown back with suprise. “Laynoth? Ok, now I know you’re spreading

lies. The elven capital? humans aren’t allowed in that place.”

“Exactly. One of the many reasons I needed contacts I could only get through Gearlan.”

“Right lad. And my left boot turns into a yellow pig whenever I say the word ‘midget’.”

Ruari rolled his eyes.

“I’m serious, Ruari. It isn’t like you don’t have any proof.”

“Aye lad, it’s just a bit too much to take in right now. I mean, all I’ve done these past

five years is work, plus a little militia duty when a role will need to be replaced. Nothing

but making knives for five long years.”

“Then it’s settled.”

“What is, lad?”

“When I leave here, on my way to wherever the clues lead me, you’re coming with.”

Ruari smiled, then nodded in silent agreement. “Good to be back, lad.”